Things to do & places to visit in Kaohsiung, Taiwan

A modern city in the south of Taiwan, Kaohsiung shifts from ancient to contemporary culture with ease. Don't miss the breathtaking Fo Guang Shan monastery and its hall of giant Buddhas. Dream Mall, the largest shopping mall in Taiwan, has a Ferris wheel on the roof. Drive to Kenting National Park for beautiful landscapes.

Kaohsiung #3 destination in Taiwan 2023. The average rating score is 4.08 based on 22.6k traveler reviews, of 454 attractions. Timezone: Asia/Taipei, current date and time: Friday, May 10, 2024, 4:40.

Kaohsiung Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

84°F - 77°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze

Feels like

44%

Chance of rain

234.0 millimeters

Amount

10.0 mph

Wind speed

80%

Humidity

13.2

Daylight length

5:18 AM

Sunrise

6:31 PM

Sunset

30%

Cloud cover

Sleeveless shirt

What to wear

Top things to do (36)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Massage N' Cafe (341 reviews)
- Wonderful massage experience
Friday: 12:00 PM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Sports Camps & Clinics • Coffeehouses • Spas

Relax Western fusion aromatic essential oils combined with Asian massage to relax after the body massage, enjoy a cup of high pressure brewing ice / hot coffee and store carefully prepared snacks, here can completely relax the healing , From the indoor to see the outdoor woods driveway, Dayton slow life many. See more..
4.5 The Pier-2 Art Centre (1.841 reviews)
- A place to chill with plenty of arts exhibits
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Art Galleries • Points of Interest & Landmarks

At Pier-2, Collision is a Driving Force It was once an abandoned and forgotten warehouse buried in history due to the move from an industrial based segment to the service sector. However, with a group of persistent artist who injected waves of creativity and inspiration into the area, the Pier-2 area was released and re-born making the region a place where tourist and locals can come together to enjoy fine art. With the collision of an old area and new fine art, Pier-2 becomes an area of new vitality and liveliness. Located at the sides of the pier are the artistic warehouse clusters. Not only are there unlimited flows of cars, boats, sea breeze and people coming and going every day but also when looking at the vast ocean and sky, one is relaxed, stress-free with limitless thoughts. The encounter of the land and the ocean is so vast at Pier-2, it seems to symbolised the bright future ahead. The Operation Centre and the artists who have come to showcase their significant artworks both have their own dreams and visions for Pier-2. However both are willing to put down their differences to support one another and work towards a common goal which is the success of Pier-2. Despite the administrative and artistic conflict, both parties come together to become intimate partners, building an memorable and lasting image in the hearts of the people. Great cooperation needs time and hardship to accumulate. On Taiwan's Independence Day, October 10th, 2000, celebration fireworks were not only launched in Taipei. For the first time the government also decided to release fireworks in southern Taiwan, and Kaohsiung became the selected location. In order to find a suitable location to present fireworks, the organisers re-discovered the Pier-2 Warehouses just beside the harbour. Later in 2001, a group of passionate Taiwanese artists established the Pier-2 Artistic Development Association. Pier-2 has become the headquarters for artistic development in southern Taiwan. The Kaohsiung... See more..
4.5 Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum (1.204 reviews)
- Wear good shoes, because this isn't just one musuem
Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums • Religious Sites • History Museums

The Buddha Museum (formerly Buddha Memorial Center) was constructed with the intention of the construction commenced in 2001 enshrining the Buddha's relic and lasted for ten years. It was officially opened on the 25th December 2011. See more..
4.5 Fo Guang Shan (654 reviews)
- Very good
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites

At the north-east point of Dashu Township in Kaohsiung county, South Taiwan, Fo Guang Shan Monastery (literally translated as Buddha’s Light Mountain Monastery) sits on a bamboo hill on the left bank of the Gaoping river. Here you will find the headquarters of a prominent Buddhist order, established by Master Hsing Yun and his disciples. The architecture of the buildings within the monastery complex is characteristic of the traditional Buddhist monastery, but one may be pleasantly surprised with the array of visitor-friendly amenities on offer. The southeastern face of Fo Guang Shan Monastery features the prominent Great Buddha Land, which is home to a standing Buddha image of 48 metres in height, and 480 smaller Buddha images that surround it. English-speaking visitors may find information and maps in English at the Reception, and prior contact via email can be made to discuss free tour options. See more..
4.5 Kaohsiung Main Public Library (439 reviews)
- Almost perfect, most beautiful place in Kaohsiung @ night
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers • Government Buildings

Even the 85 sky tower doesn't lit up like the Kaohsiung Main Public Library at night! It was just next to where I was staying and I did not realise this is the public library till the following morning - just stunning at night! I visited the next day and it was awesome. The only pity thing is no English books. But that 5-6 storeys of books and spacious study/working area are just amazing, so conducive and quiet. I would totally spend half a day here next time to chill, read a book and drink at the cafe! See more..
4.5 Taroko Park (291 reviews)
- My toddler had the best time!
Friday: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Shopping Malls

A haven for toddlers; so many exciting rides which they can take over and over. Free entry for kids, just had to pay 399ntd for the accompanying adult. Amazing! Well-run, safe and many hours of great fun. Highly recommend! See more..
4.5 Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts (177 reviews)
- Quite interesting and varied exhibitions
Art Museums

From local photographers, City Art Competitions and more traditional stuff - it was all of very high standard. Worth a visit - think it was free too. See more..
4.5 National Science and Technology Museum, Kaohsiung (172 reviews)
- Fun Place for Kids
Science Museums

This museum is good entertainment for kids, and it's educational as well. They have displays on a number of interesting topics, but the best part is the children's play area, where they can interact with the exhibits. My kids really liked the exhibits about sound and light, and the play area that has a pirate theme. It costs about NT$120 to enter, but it's free for a few hours on Wednesday mornings. See more..
4.5 Mld (91 reviews)
- The bookstore located inside the MLD is a great contribution to the community
Spent 2-3 hours Movie Theaters

I visited the bookstore whenever I was in Kaohsiung, very well organized and designed place with a lot cultural components to offer to the community, my sister told me the owner opened it to feedback to the community not to make money, and I can see it is hard to generate profits from such a big bookstore. It offers comfortable chairs to read inside and air conditioned well, such a good deed for Kaohsiung’s hot steamy summer See more..
4.5 Caishan Natural Park (90 reviews)
- More than Just a Mountain
Mountains

There are in fact many entrances to Caishan, or more commonly known as Shoushan. When I was a teenager, I usually began my hike from the Longquan Temple. The last time I visited Shoushan years later, I took the trail behind the Yuanheng Temple. Different entrances make different scenery on the way. The most popular Longquan Temple trail is recommended to first-time and general visitors. If you are able and flexible, go explore some of the caves that hold the treasures of stalactites, stalagmites, and stone pillars. Those who visit Shoushan are often amazed and amused by the monkeys (Formosan macaques) that can be seen almost everywhere. They are just there, gathering food, playing, or simply picking fleas off of each other. Leave them as they are and do not feed them. The monkeys are protected animals and any human interference should be kept to minimum. With its interesting ecology and geography, Shoushan is definitely more than just a mountain. See more..
4.0 The Dome of Light (1.479 reviews)
- Colorful stained glass ceiling
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Dome of Light is a very colorful stained glass ceiling, brightly lit. We visited this many times as we stayed beside the Formosa Station and this dome is found inside this station. Even the pillars were brightly lit and colorful. This has become a tourist attraction and is included in many tour itineraries. There were even chairs for you to sit and there is a white grand piano there. This place has many visitors, but the shops in this station were relatively quiet. See more..
4.0 Dragon Tiger Tower (1.161 reviews)
- Something worth seeing in Kaohsiung
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Dragon and Tiger Towers have been a feature on travelers' itineraries for many years. The are built over water, which is said to be lucky. Many visitors are under the impression that Kaohsiung is a gritty industrial city, but there are many things to see, if you look hard, such as the delightful lotus when they bloom. See more..
4.0 Cijin Island (1.143 reviews)
- Nice island!!
Islands

I didn’t expect anything from this island but, I really enjoyed. Island itself was very beautiful! There are many photo spots so people can enjoy. I recommend to rent en electronic bicycle to see around. See more..
4.0 Ai He (Love River) (1.121 reviews)
- A Nice Place for an Evening Stroll
Spent < 1 hour Jogging Paths & Tracks

This promenade is a nice place for an evening stroll in Kaoshiung city. It is clean, cool and breezy when we were there. The colourful lights and sights of the surrounding buildings make an attractive place to visit. It is a great place for night photography. There are cafes with live entertainment and karaoke, restaurants, night market stalls as well as a few buskers and street performers along the riverbank. Visitors can also go for a river cruise on the various types of boats for a fee. We chose to walk along the promenade and in the well-maintained gardens where benches are provided. Although it was not brightly lit, we felt safe. Definitely worth a visit (stroll) when you are in Kaoshiung city. See more..
4.0 Lianchi (Lotus) Lake (766 reviews)
- Beautiful lake
Bodies of Water

This is one of the more beautiful areas to visit in Kaohsiung. We took a local bus here in the afternoon and the weather was quite hot. It was a fairly large lake with many beautiful temples, pavilions and towers dotted around the lake. If you come to Kaohsiung, this is a must visit area. We also saw lots of lotus plants in the lake near the dragon and tiger towers. See more..
4.0 Gushan Ferry Pier (572 reviews)
- Economical trip
Ferries

A very convenient ferry for everyone to go back and forth CiJin with lots of available schedule. You can sit at 2nd floor to enjoy the sea view and breeze around the port. Good to travel with kids by taking the ferry. Have fun here. See more..
4.0 Formosa Boulevard Station (427 reviews)
- Awesome
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings

Never thought that the metro train station can become a popular attraction. We passed here 3 times during our trip and every time we can see some tourist taking photos. Very attractive decoration sure every one should not gonna to miss this when you are at Kaoshiong. Visited on Nov 2019. See more..
4.0 The British Consulate At Takao (380 reviews)
- Come here after Cijin Trip
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Since it's near the Gushan ferry terminal. It's right beside a chinese temple at the top of the hill slope. Entrance fee is twd99/pax, With a twd30 coupon for use at restaurant only. Not much exhibits as mentioned by other reviewers, come here for the views of Kaohsiung. U can also see cijin island. This can be combined with Cijin island as a day trip. We sat by the restaurant veranda to have a latte and a pot of tea (min one drink order per pax) as we take a break from the day's sightseeing. Drink prices similar to Starbucks so we find it OK. See more..
4.0 Dream Mall (364 reviews)
- This mall has evolved nicely over the years.
Friday: 10:30 AM - 10:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls

When the Dream Mall construction began, it was billed as the largest shopping mall in Asia. Well, China built 2 that were bigger by the time this mall was opened. Over the years, the variety and quality of brand-name stores has improved significantly. The restaurants and food court have also improved, so you will have no problem finding a great snack or full course meal, and everythig in between. Lots of indoor parking that is free for scooters and motorcycles, but cars need to pay (but purchases can offset the fee). A rooftop amusement park and great movie theater really add to the value. Go and spend the whole day there. See more..
4.0 Seaside Park (283 reviews)
- My favourite place in Kaoshiung
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Biking Trails • Beaches • Parks

This is always my favourite place whenever I visit Kaoshiung. Take Kaoshiung MRT (KRTC) to Siziwan station, walk about 10mins to Gushan Ferry Pier to take a 10mins ferry to Cijin. Ferries are very frequent and can pay via EasyCard. Lots of great food once you get off ferry at Cijin old street. Specialty is the juicy tomato with special sauce. There's an old lady selling fried sweet potato ball in pushcart, very delicious. Some nice fish soup stalls around also, anyway lots of great good there. There's a place selling plenty of cuttlefish (titbits), dried shrimps and many other stuffs. Interesting place to visit. See more..
4.0 Takao Railway Museum (272 reviews)
- Perfect location for tourists starting a visit of Kaohsiung
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

We stopped in Kaohsiung as a port of call on a Princess cruise last spring . We took a shuttle which brought us to the Takao Railway Museum . We went in the Museum for about 20 minutes and it was an interesting visit ! What was more interesting though was the fact that : 1) the Museum is right beside the starting point of the city bus sightseeing tour ($0.75) which runs every hour and provides a guided tour of the old part of town 2) the Metro Station is right beside the Museum and from there ,one can get very easily and cheaply to the center of town and see the Dome Light on the way 3) the Pier-2-Art Center is at the back of the Museum , some displays being common to both sights So this is why we say that it was the perfect location for starting our visit of Kaohsiung See more..
4.0 E-Da Theme Park (240 reviews)
- Good for families and if you have extra time
Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

Interesting check out. Small theme park which can be covered within a day. Less crowded on weekdays. Purchase tickets in advance from 7-11 or other locations which offer discounts. Shuttle bus (NT 37 one way) available from bus stop (bus platform 5) outside HSR Zuoying (take exit 2 and go down the escalator if from HSR) or exit 1 if coming from the normal Zuoying train station. See more..
4.0 Xiziwan (224 reviews)
- beautiful scenery~
Parks

Hi everyone! I am a Taiwanese and I live in Kaohsiung for 20 years, I want to commend Xiziwan to you to come here watching the beautiful sunset here. You can walk into the Sun Yat-sen University, and go to the beach which is in the school! Because the school is beside the Kaohsiung harbor, when you sitting on the beach to watching the sunset, you will see the boat exits the harbor. Kaohsiung's weather is nice and the sky is very clear, so you always can see the beautiful scenery here!!! Welcome to Kaohsiung!!! See more..
4.0 Cihou Lighthouse (205 reviews)
- Qihou Lighthouse
Lighthouses

This is the first time I go to the Qihou Lighthouse with my kid ! My kid is so excited to mount on this foothill and got close looks at this historic scenic surrounding! Especially people can overlook the Kaohsiung harbor and all the way from the port waterway to offshore of Kaohsiung Harbor!We took a bit of pictures there ! I guess Qihou Lighthouse is the top choice of Kaohsiung Scenics to visit! 這是第一次帶小孩到訪旗后燈塔！小朋友很興奮到這裡，不但看到有歷史意義的燈塔，還能飽攬高雄港的港內景觀，ㄧ直延伸到高雄港外海！我們也照了很多的照片！旗后燈塔是到高雄旅遊的首選之一！ See more..
4.0 Spring and Autumn Pavilion (196 reviews)
- Enter the Dragon’s Mouth
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Located in the waters of Lotus Lake. See more..
4.0 Taiwan Sugar Museum (184 reviews)
- Disused factory with lots of things to do
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

It is a disused factory now turned into a museum. You get to understand how the sugarcane is transported, processed and made into sugar. This original site was formerly a sugarcane plantation. Now there are old trains for display. You can also rent a bicycle or 4 wheeler to move around as the place is huge. There is underground tunnel, a pig museum, a children's maze with a lot of interesting metal structures. See more..
4.0 Central Park Kaohsiung (184 reviews)
- Nighttime Visit
Spent < 1 hour Parks

I did not have a chance to visit during the day but enjoyed the walk through the park during the evening. It was well lit, had well maintained paths but not many visitors seen. Closer to the lake were couples, some homeless people (with their own whole body bug netting), and some exercisers. A few large banyan (?) trees made for good photo backdrops, some statues and artworks were scattered around. The park can be reached via the Central Park MRT station. Here a small crowd was gathered to listen to a four boy band group sing. See more..
4.0 E-da Mall (177 reviews)
- Factory outlet
Shopping Malls

New Outlet Shopping Mall See more..
4.0 Kaohsiung Arena (155 reviews)
- Enjoyable shopping but overly crowded
Arenas & Stadiums

Went on Sunday evening, this place is overly crowded on weekend. Did some shopping and have dinner at din tai Fung Pretty enjoyable See more..
4.0 Martyrs' Shrine (150 reviews)
- Quiet
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Of course, this is not like the one in Taipei but it serves the same purpose of honoring the Martyrs. This is located high up on the hill of Shou Shan so I think the view made up the uniqueness of this shrine. It was very quiet when we were there and we were able to walk around the shrine with no restriction. It was a day in July but the gentle breezes up on the hill made for a pleasant visit. The observation deck out front have a gorgeous view of the city. See more..